A heady mix of retro and modern gives this city a distinct edge, and Newry has firmly established itself as shopping heaven with locals on the island of Ireland. One of Northern Ireland’s newest city it may be, but the past makes up an integral part of Newry’s modern-day character. And there’s a lot of "past" on offer – after all, human settlement here dates back to 4,000BC.

In the 19th century, Newry was a bustling trading port, a place of merchants, markets and noisy city quays. A link to the city’s industrious beginnings can be seen in its place names: Buttercrane Quay, Canal Boat Street and Custom House Quay. A flourish of rejuvenation means many historically significant buildings are intact once more, each with a little tale of their own.

Newry: places to eat

Shop 'til you drop

If there’s one thing that Newry city can do like nowhere else, it’s shopping. Shopping centres such as The Quays and The Buttercrane house all the major stores and eateries you could wish for. But a jaunt out from the centres into the smaller shops comes with its own rewards, too, with niche retailers offering something unique.

At Jack Murphy Jewellers, Gemma Murphy says the key to Newry’s success is its reputation for traditional family-run businesses. “Newry is known for the quality of its customer service,” she notes. “And that spreads through word-of-mouth all over Ireland and much further afield.”

When you’re all shopped out, Newry is the perfect base to explore some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sites, such as the Mourne Mountains and the Gullion Way, the magnificent city of Belfast and tranquil Carlingford Lough. And just out from the city, the peace and serenity of Rostrevor Forest Walk is a refreshing change of scenery to the fast-paced thrum of Newry.